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Protecting Alabama's Ancient Underwater Forest: New Marine Sanctuary Established.

This Act establishes the Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary to protect a unique 50,000-year-old cypress forest off the Alabama coast. For citizens, this means recreational activities like fishing and diving are explicitly allowed and encouraged within the sanctuary boundaries. However, activities that could damage the seabed, such as drilling, dredging, or salvage operations, are strictly prohibited to ensure the preservation of this scientific resource.
Key points
Designates a specific area off the Alabama coast as a National Marine Sanctuary to preserve a globally unique ancient cypress forest.
Bans destructive activities like drilling, dredging, and subsurface salvage within the sanctuary boundaries.
Recreational and commercial fishing, diving, and the construction of artificial reefs remain permitted and are prioritized uses.
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VOTING RESULTS
2024-07-08
95%
For 349
Against 19
Abstain 0
Full voting results open_in_new
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_897
Sponsor: Rep. Carl, Jerry L. [R-AL-1]
Process start date: 2023-02-09
Voting date: 2024-07-08
Meeting no: 2
Voting no: 336
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary and Protection Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_897.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-02-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Designates a specific area off the Alabama coast as a National Marine Sanctuary to preserve a globally unique ancient cypress forest.
  • Bans destructive activities like drilling, dredging, and subsurface salvage within the sanctuary boundaries.
  • Recreational and commercial fishing, diving, and the construction of artificial reefs remain permitted and are prioritized uses.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Where is the official voting record?

The official roll call vote is recorded at: voting record

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Carl, Jerry L. [R-AL-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 349 - 19 (Roll no. 336). (text: CR H4463)

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Environment